The Department of Trade and Industry announced plans to use free trade agreements and agricultural products to maintain the Philippines' strong merchandise export growth seen in 2025.
Trade Secretary Maria Cristina A. Roque confirmed that the ministry is actively pursuing these strategies while speaking at the National Exporters’ Fair.
In addition to established exports such as ube, the DTI is scouting for new marketable items, identifying potential “new stars” like kalamansi and other regional specialties.
Current trade negotiations include agreements with the European Union, Chile, and Canada, while a Japan‑Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement is expected to conclude in November.
Global tensions in the Middle East remain a risk factor that could affect export momentum.
Merchandise exports grew 15.2% in 2025, reaching $84.41 billion, and the first five months of the year saw a 10.6% increase to $37.87 billion.
Exports of semiconductors and electronics are projected to exceed $50 billion, underscoring their role as a key growth driver.
The Small Business Corp., the DTI’s financing arm, introduced a one‑billion‑peso Youth Enterprise Fund targeting entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30, offering loans ranging from 30,000 to 500,000 pesos with flexible repayment terms.
For 2027, the corporation plans a five‑billion‑peso budget to support women, micro, small, and medium‑sized enterprises as well as overseas Filipino workers.
